Neck Lift

Overview

Mayo Clinic offers two procedures for enhancing the appearance of the neck: facial liposuction and a neck lift.

Before and after a neck lift

As we age, fat tends to accumulate between the chin and neck, and facial muscles sag, detracting from the facial profile. Removing excess fat by liposuction or by performing a neck lift can create a more defined and attractive jawline and neck.

A neck lift is a more focused approach than a full face-lift. Consequently, the procedure is sometimes called a mini lift.

Mayo's board-certified facial plastic surgeons provide you with information and advice to help determine which treatment option is best for you.

What to expect

Liposuction
The surgeon makes a tiny incision behind each ear and under the chin. Specialized equipment suctions fat from the jawline and beneath the chin. The result, if the skin is resilient, is a more defined neck area.

Patients are usually required to wear a garment that compresses the face for three to four weeks after surgery.

Types

Neck Lift (Cervicoplasty)
The surgeon makes a small incision beneath the chin (and sometimes around the ears) and tightens the neck muscles underneath. Excess skin and fat also may be removed. A neck compression garment may be worn for five to seven days after surgery to reduce post-surgery swelling.

Cervicoplasty is recommended for patients who are overweight and often experience fluctuations in weight.

Mini-Neck Lift (Submentoplasty)
A very small incision is made, which often aligns naturally with the contours of the neck. Neck muscles are tightened through a combination of liposuction and muscle tightening. Patients may wear a compression garment for four or five days after surgery.

Candidates for submentoplasty are usually near their ideal, target weight and have a moderate amount of loose skin and fat in the neck region.

Risks

The risks associated with a neck lift and liposuction may include, but are not limited to:

• Problems with anesthesia
• Bleeding
• Irregularities in the contour of the face or "dimpling" that appears unnatural
• Temporary or permanent numbness or weakness in the chin and mouth (usually diminishes)
• Swelling and bruising that extends into the front of the neck for up to six weeks